There’s nothing quite like the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. These Classic Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with a delicious cinnamon-sugar filling, all topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat, these rolls are a true indulgence that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk (as needed for desired consistency)
Instructions:
For the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
For the Filling:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll and Fill the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle about 18×12 inches in size.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Form the Rolls:
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
- Cut the log into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
For the Frosting:
- Make the Frosting:
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Baking:
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Frost and Serve:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls before serving.
Enjoy these Classic Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven, with their gooey cinnamon filling and creamy frosting. They’re a perfect treat for any time of the day, bringing warmth and sweetness to your home.